Gastro pub in Bulmer Tye reopens after nine-month absence

The relaunch of a gastro pub has been described by its new owners as very successful, while helping to restore “a focal point of the community” once again.

The Fox in Bulmer Tye fully reopened at the beginning of the month, following a two-week soft launch period in September, under the ownership of independent pub operator Gusto Pronto, run by husband-and-wife team David and Roxane Marjoram.

The company, which operates The Crown in Hartest among a number of other businesses, took over The Fox in the summer, following the pub’s sudden closure nine months ago.

Various interior renovations were subsequently carried out, including the creation of a new coffee lounge-style area, and the pub currently employs 22 full-time and part-time staff.

Roxane told the Free Press they believe The Fox’s strong reputation gives it a good chance of thriving, despite the increasing difficulties faced by pubs today.

She explained the soft opening has allowed them to gradually build up their services, and they have been delighted by the response so far, after a busy first few weeks of trade.

“We have been really busy, which is fantastic,” she said. “There are a lot of returning customers, which is fabulous to see, and we’ve been thrilled by the volume of people who want to come and give the pub a try.

“I think that it provides that sort of focal point again, where people can get together and catch up, or have a Sunday roast.

“It brings that sort of central gathering point back to the village, and it’s certainly nice to be able to provide that.

“It’s a challenging time, certainly for the pub industry. We find we continue to have to work hard and keep looking at what customers want and the experiences they receive when they come in.

“We want to see it become a happy and thriving pub again. We are thrilled by the way people have returned to the pub and, hopefully, new faces will try it out as well,” she added.

Opening hours for The Fox are between noon and 11pm, from Mondays to Saturdays, and noon until 10pm on Sundays.

Advance booking for tables is recommended during busy periods. For further information, telephone 01787 275727 or go online to thefoxbulmertye.co.uk.